Ben Askren retains title in a closely contested decision at Bellator 56

Though UFC 137 may have lost the championship clash originally scheduled to headline the card, Bellator FC was prepped to deliver a title-fight tonight in addition to semifinal action from the promotion’s ongoing heavyweight tournament.

Live from Kansas City, Bellator 56 featured welterweight king Ben Askren putting his belt on the line against well-rounded veteran Jay Hieron in the main event, barely retaining the gold after going the distance and winning a Split Decision.

Additionally, former tournament finalist Neil Grove fell to Thiago Santos and Ron Sparks was flattened by Eric Prindle with the winners moving one step closer to their own shot at a Bellator strap with the Season 5 final up next for both.